The Danube Cycle Path is one of Europe's most famous and popular cycling routes , stretching from the Danube's source in Germany to its mouth at the Black Sea. Over 2.850 kilometers, you'll experience a diverse journey through ten countries , passing breathtaking landscapes, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Whether you're planning a relaxed day trip or a multi-week cycling tour, the Danube Cycle Path offers something for every cyclist – from river valleys and vineyards to vibrant cities and tranquil nature reserves . Let yourself be captivated by the diversity and beauty of this unique cycle path and discover the Danube in a truly special way. Find out more and discover the Danube Cycle Path now!
The most important information about the Danube Cycle Path at a glance
- Length: 2.850 km
- Number of stages: 12 stages in Germany
- Difficulty: light to medium
- Quality: very well
- Signage: The Danube Cycle Path is signposted almost throughout. In Germany and Austria, the Danube Cycle Path is signposted with a green-yellow-blue sign. The Danube Cycle Path is also part of the European cycle route Eurovelo 6, which runs from the Atlantic to the Black Sea. The Eurovelo 6 logo can also often be found on the Danube Cycle Path signposts.
- Topography: Mostly asphalted
- Altitude: 5.120 meters uphill and 5.610 meters downhill
- Where does the Danube Cycle Path begin and end? The Danube Cycle Route starts in Donaueschingen, Germany, where the Danube originates, and traditionally ends in Budapest, Hungary. However, there are also longer routes that lead to the Black Sea in Romania. The main route passes through several countries, including Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, and includes numerous picturesque towns and landscapes along the Danube.
- Best travel time: The best time to travel the Danube Cycle Path is in the Months from May to SeptemberDuring this time, weather conditions are usually ideal for cycling, with summer temperatures and long days. Here are some specific considerations for each month:
- Spring: This season offers mild to sunny temperatures and fewer tourists. The landscape is in spring in in full bloom and the bike paths are often less crowded.
- Summer: These are the warmest months with ideal temperatures for cycling, but it can also get hot – especially in the southern regionsIt is also the peak holiday season in Europe, so the Danube Cycle Route routes and accommodations can get busier.
- Autumn: Autumn brings more pleasant temperatures and fewer crowdsNature begins to change color, which provides a particularly beautiful backdrop for the tour.
Our most popular cycling tours
You would like to cycle the Danube Cycle Path with optimal comfort explore? Then we recommend one individual cycling trip familiar with the Mecklenburger Radtour: This doesn't just include overnight stays, but also the comfortable luggage transport carefully arranged for you.
Distance table and stages of the Danube Cycle Path
| Start | Objective | Removal | Estimated time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Donauschingen | beuron | 53,4 km | approx. 04:00 hrs. |
| beuron | Riedlingen | 50,0 km | approx. 03:45 hours |
| Riedlingen | Ulm | 62,0 km | approx. 04:30 hours |
| Ulm | Gunzburg | 26,6 km | approx. 02:00 hours |
| Gunzburg | Donauworth | 55,7 km | approx. 04:00 hours |
| Donauworth | neuburg | 37,4 km | approx. 03:00 hours |
| neuburg | Ingolstadt | 22,7 km | approx. 01:30 hours |
| Ingolstadt | Bad Goegging | 33,2 km | approx.02:30 hours |
| Bad Goegging | Kehlheim | 17,5 km | approx. 01:00 hours |
| Kehlheim | Regensburg | 27,3 km | approx. 02:00 hours |
| Regensburg | Straubing | 52,0 km | approx. 03:30 hours |
| Straubing | Deggendorf | 35,3 km | approx. 02:30 hours |
| Deggendorf | Passau | 55,7 km | approx. 04:00 hours |
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Your bike tour along the Danube Cycle Path: This is what the Danube has to offer!
A cycling tour along the Danube Cycle Path is not only sporty and active, but also an unforgettable nature experience . The landscapes along the Danube are characterized by picturesque river valleys, rolling hills, and majestic mountains. On your cycling trip, you will pass through historic towns and villages and experience the unique river landscape of the Danube floodplains and the Schlögen Bend . The following overview gives you a glimpse of the most beautiful cities from Regensburg in Germany to Budapest in Hungary.
Regensburg - a city with charm and history
Regensburg, one of Germany's oldest cities, lies idyllically on the Danube and enchants visitors with its well-preserved historic city center . This history, etched in stone, is a true delight for all culture enthusiasts: St. Peter's Cathedral , the Old Town Hall , and the Stone Bridge are just a few of the many impressive sights. Stroll through the picturesque alleyways , enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in the cozy cafés, and let yourself be captivated by the charm of this beautiful city!
Passau: The magical city of three rivers
Passau, also known as the " City of Three Rivers ," is picturesquely situated at the confluence of the Danube , Inn , and Ilz rivers . The baroque old town, shaped by Italian architects, invites you to take leisurely strolls and explore its charming sights . Particularly worth seeing are the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral with the world's largest church organ and the Veste Oberhaus fortress , which offers breathtaking views of the rivers and the city. Let yourself be enchanted by Passau's charm and the cheerful atmosphere in its quaint restaurants and cafés!
Schlögen: Natural paradise on the Danube loop
Schlögen, a picturesque village on the banks of the Danube, captivates visitors with its breathtaking natural landscape. Here, where the Danube makes an impressive bend around the Schlögen hill , the Schlögen Danube Bend is an absolute highlight for nature lovers and hikers. Enjoy the stunning views from the observation platforms or explore the surroundings on a leisurely bike ride. Afterwards, relax in one of the inviting inns or cafés and let yourself be enchanted by the cheerful atmosphere and hospitality of Schlögen!
Linz: industrial city with cultural flair
Linz, Austria's third-largest city , lies picturesquely on the Danube and surprises visitors with its blend of industry, culture, and nature. Visit the impressive Ars Electronica Center , considered a museum of the future for digital art and media technology. The charming old town invites you to stroll and explore – admire the Old Town Hall , the baroque Mariendom (St. Mary's Cathedral) , and the Linz Castle Museum . Let yourself be swept away by the vibrant atmosphere in Linz's modern shopping centers and cozy cafés! For nature lovers, a trip to the nearby Pöstlingberg is highly recommended , offering breathtaking views over the city.
Vienna: Imperial splendor and modern liveliness
Vienna, the capital of Austria, enchants visitors with its blend of imperial splendor and modern vibrancy . Stroll through the historic Old Town, dominated by magnificent buildings such as the Hofburg Palace , St. Stephen's Cathedral , and the Vienna State Opera . Immerse yourself in the world of the Habsburgs at the splendid Schönbrunn Palace or enjoy coffee and cake in one of Vienna's famous coffee houses. Let yourself be captivated by the lively atmosphere in Vienna's trendy neighborhoods and charming green spaces!
Krems: Wine, art and history on the Danube
Krems, a charming town in the heart of the Wachau, impresses with a picturesque old town, which is World Heritage Site Stroll through the winding streets and marvel at the well-preserved historic buildings. Discover the world of wine in the surrounding wineries and enjoy the excellent wines of the region. Those interested in culture should Karikaturmuseum and the famous Gottweig Monastery visit, which impresses with magnificent gardens and a unique baroque library. Let the relaxed atmosphere and hospitality at Krems enchant!
Bratislava: Historical charm and lively atmosphere
Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, enchants visitors with its rich history and vibrant modern life . Stroll through the picturesque Old Town, past colorful houses and magnificent churches. Visit the imposing Bratislava Castle , which offers breathtaking views of the city and the Danube. Discover contemporary art at the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum or savor culinary delights in the many cozy restaurants and cafes. Let yourself be captivated by Bratislava's charm and hospitality!
Budapest: The shining pearl on the Danube
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, impresses with a unique blend of magnificent architecture , picturesque Danube scenery , and relaxing thermal baths . Marvel at the majestic Buda Castle District , perched high above the city, and enjoy the breathtaking views. Stroll along the Danube and admire the imposing Parliament Building and the famous Chain Bridge . Treat yourself to a break in one of the numerous thermal baths that make Budapest a true oasis of relaxation. Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this shining pearl on the Danube!
Sights along the Danube Cycle Path
Donaueschingen Castle (Donaueschingen, Germany): A magnificent castle with a beautiful park, known as the source of the Danube.
Sigmaringen Castle (Sigmaringen, Germany): An impressive castle with an important weapons collection and magnificent rooms.
Beuron Monastery (Beuron, Germany): A Benedictine monastery in picturesque surroundings, known for its artistic frescoes.
Ulm Minster (Ulm, Germany): The church with the highest steeple in the world.
Blautopf near Blaubeuren (Blaubeuren, Germany): A karst spring with deep blue water and a legendary history.
Upper Danube Nature Park (Baden-Württemberg, Germany): A nature park with impressive limestone cliffs and deep valleys.
Walhalla Donaustauf (Donaustauf, Germany): A neoclassical marble temple honoring important personalities.
Kelheim Liberation Hall (Kelheim, Germany): A monument commemorating the Wars of Liberation.
Weltenburg Monastery (Kelheim, Germany): A baroque monastery in a scenic bend of the Danube.
Neuburg Castle (Neuburg an der Donau, Germany): A Renaissance castle with ornate facades and magnificent interiors.
Danube seepage (Baden-Württemberg, Germany): A geological phenomenon in which the Danube temporarily disappears underground.
Melk Abbey (Melk, Austria): A magnificent baroque Benedictine monastery, perched high above the Danube.
Upper House Fortress (Passau, Germany): An impressive castle complex with a museum and a wonderful view of the Danube.
Schlögener noose (Schlögen, Austria): A striking river loop of the Danube in Upper Austria.
Schönbrunn Castle (Vienna, Austria): A former imperial summer residence with extensive gardens and magnificent interiors.
Wiener Prater (Vienna, Austria): A large public park with the famous Ferris wheel.
Poestlingberg (Linz, Austria): A pilgrimage site with panoramic views over the city and the Danube.
LENTOS Art Museum (Linz, Austria): A modern art museum with an impressive collection of contemporary art.
The Parliament in Budapest (Budapest, Hungary): A magnificent neo-Gothic building right on the Danube.
Bratislava Castle (Bratislava, Slovakia): A historic castle overlooking the Danube and the Old Town.
Various festivals along the Danube Cycle Path
Along the Danube Cycle Path, numerous festivals celebrate the region's cultural diversity and traditions. One particularly famous festival is Oktoberfest in Munich, the world's largest folk festival , which attracts millions of visitors with its beer tents, rides, and Bavarian specialties. Another highlight is the Gäubodenvolksfest in Straubing , known as one of Bavaria's oldest folk festivals, which delights visitors with a diverse program of folk music, traditional costume parades, and a large amusement park. In Austria, the Donauinselfest in Vienna draws hundreds of thousands of people annually to enjoy the free open-air music festival on Danube Island. The Linzer Pflasterspektakel (Linz Street Spectacle) transforms the city center into a stage for street performers from around the world, offering a vibrant program of music, theater, and acrobatics. In Hungary, the Sziget Festival in Budapest celebrates for a week on Óbuda Island in the Danube with international music acts, art installations, and cultural events, attracting visitors from all over the globe.
How to Arrive
By train:
Most of the major cities along the Danube Cycle Path are easily accessible by trainIn Germany, Austria and Hungary there is a good railway infrastructure that also allows bicycles to be taken on board.
Germany: Deutsche Bahn offers special bicycle compartments on many trains. For example, you can easily travel from Munich to Donaueschingen.
Austria: The ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) have bicycle parking spaces on many of their trains. A frequently used starting point is Passau, which is easily accessible from Vienna and Munich.
Hungary: MÁV-START, the Hungarian railway, also offers bicycle transport. Budapest is a central hub.
By Car:
Traveling by car is also possible and convenient. Many cyclists decide to park their car in a city and take public transport to the starting point. There are parking facilities in the larger cities along the route.
By plane:
For international travelers, there are airports near the main departure points:
Germany: Stuttgart Airport (for Donaueschingen)
Austria: Linz or Vienna Airport
Hungary: Budapest Airport
The Danube Cycle Path between Passau and Vienna is considered particularly beautiful . This route is known for its stunning landscapes, historical sites, and numerous attractions along the way. The Wachau, a wine region in Lower Austria , is a particular highlight.
How long it takes to cycle the Danube Cycle Path depends heavily on the chosen route and individual pace. For the popular route from Passau to Vienna (approximately 300 kilometers), most cyclists plan 6 to 8 days . The entire Danube Cycle Path from Donaueschingen to the Black Sea is approximately 2.850 kilometers long and can be completed over several weeks or months .
The Danube Cycle Path is mostly flat and therefore suitable for cyclists of all fitness levels. There are only a few inclines , making it particularly attractive for families and less experienced cyclists . The section between Passau and Vienna is very well developed and offers numerous places to stop for refreshments.
The Danube Cycle Path runs along both sides of the Danube. Bridges and ferries often allow cyclists to cross to the other side. Which side you choose depends on the sights, the route, and your personal preferences.
The route from Passau to Vienna is about 300 kilometers long.
The distance from Passau to Budapest is approximately 600 kilometers . Depending on the chosen route, the exact length may vary slightly.
Our cycling tours
Do you want to cycle along the Danube Cycle Path in a relaxed manner, without having to carry your luggage and book each hotel individually ? Then book a cycling holiday on the Danube with us and enjoy your dream cycling tour!
